Laura G. Scheland is a seasoned executive with over two decades of experience in the consumer products industry, specializing in absorbent materials and pet care solutions. She began her career at Procter & Gamble, where she held various marketing and product development roles, honing her skills in brand management and market analysis. Scheland earned her MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business and a bachelor's degree in chemical engineering from Northwestern University, which provided a strong foundation in both technical innovation and strategic business leadership. Her early work focused on sustainable product formulations, leading teams to launch eco-friendly alternatives that reduced environmental impact while maintaining high performance standards. Throughout her career, Scheland has been recognized for driving significant growth and innovation. At Mars Petcare, she spearheaded the expansion of premium pet product lines, resulting in a 25% increase in market share within three years. Her leadership in cross-functional teams earned her the Consumer Goods Forum's Innovation Award in 2018 for developing biodegradable absorbent technologies. Scheland is also an advocate for diversity in STEM fields, serving on advisory boards for organizations like Women in Engineering and mentoring young professionals. Her strategic vision has consistently delivered revenue growth through data-driven decisions and consumer-centric approaches. In her current role as Vice President & General Manager of the Consumer Products Division at Oil-Dri Corporation of America, Scheland oversees the development, marketing, and distribution of a wide range of absorbent products, including the flagship Cat's Pride cat litter brand. She leads a team of over 150 professionals, focusing on expanding market presence in North America and internationally while emphasizing sustainability and product efficacy. Under her guidance, the division has introduced innovative, odor-control formulations that have boosted customer satisfaction and loyalty, positioning Oil-Dri as a leader in the competitive consumer absorbent market.